Discover glaciers, wildlife, and the wild beauty of Alaska—by sea.
Why Cruising Alaska Should Be on Your Bucket List
There’s no place quite like Alaska — where glaciers meet the sea, bald eagles soar overhead, and every turn of the ship reveals something jaw-dropping.
For many travelers, cruising Alaska is the easiest, most comfortable, and most spectacular way to see The Last Frontier. You’ll unpack once while your floating resort takes you through icy fjords, gold-rush towns, and national parks so remote they can only be reached by ship.
Whether it’s your first visit or your fifth, Alaska has a way of making you feel like you’re seeing Earth for the very first time.
The Classic Inside Passage Route
One of the most popular ways to explore Alaska is on a roundtrip cruise from Vancouver, British Columbia, sailing the Inside Passage — a sheltered coastal route threading between islands, glaciers, and snow-capped peaks.
A typical itinerary includes two scenic sea days and stops in Juneau, Skagway, Glacier Bay National Park (scenic cruising), and Ketchikan, before returning to Vancouver.
Vancouver, British Columbia
Vancouver is often called the gateway to Alaska, but it’s far more than just a starting point. Nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the Coast Mountains, this Canadian gem consistently ranks among the most livable and scenic cities in the world.
Founded in 1886, Vancouver grew rapidly as the western terminus of the Canadian Pacific Railway, becoming a key hub for shipping, forestry, and film production. Today, it’s known for its diverse culture, thriving food scene, and natural beauty—all within easy reach of downtown.
A Few Fun Facts:
- Vancouver is nicknamed “Hollywood North”—over 400 movies and TV shows are filmed here every year, from Deadpool to The Last of Us.
- It hosted the 2010 Winter Olympics, sharing venues with nearby Whistler.
- The Capilano Suspension Bridge, first built in 1889, hangs 230 feet above a river gorge and remains one of the city’s most famous (and thrilling) attractions.
Top Landmarks & Must-Sees:
- Stanley Park: Larger than New York’s Central Park, with miles of walking and biking trails along the seawall, beaches, and totem poles honoring First Nations heritage.
- Granville Island Public Market: A lively hub for foodies and artists—grab a coffee, browse local crafts, and watch street performers by the water.
- Gastown: The city’s oldest neighborhood, full of cobblestone streets, boutiques, and the famous Steam Clock, which whistles on the quarter-hour.
- Vancouver Lookout: A 553-foot-tall observation tower offering panoramic views of the city, ocean, and mountains.
- Capilano Suspension Bridge Park: A breathtaking walk among towering evergreens—bring your camera!
Local Tip: Vancouver’s public transit is fantastic—take the SkyTrain or SeaBus to explore the city without worrying about traffic. And don’t skip the local seafood scene; try salmon sushi or a bowl of creamy West Coast chowder from a waterfront restaurant.
Whether you spend your time kayaking in False Creek, browsing art galleries, or simply enjoying the view, Vancouver sets the perfect tone for the adventure that lies ahead.
Pro Tip: Arrive a day early to explore before boarding your cruise.
Juneau, Alaska
Alaska’s capital city may be small, but it’s bursting with character, history, and wilderness. Juneau is famously one of only two U.S. state capitals that can’t be reached by road — it’s accessible only by air or sea. This isolation adds to its charm, creating a place where untamed landscapes and frontier spirit coexist beautifully.
Founded in 1880, Juneau owes its start to the gold rush era when prospectors Richard Harris and Joe Juneau struck gold in the nearby streams. Within a few years, the area became home to some of the largest gold mines in the world, drawing dreamers and fortune-seekers from across the globe. Many of the historic buildings downtown still whisper tales of those wild frontier days.
Today, Juneau blends its gold-rush past with rich Indigenous culture and a deep appreciation for the surrounding wilderness.
Top Things to Do:
- Mendenhall Glacier:
Just 12 miles from downtown, this 13-mile-long river of ice is part of the Juneau Icefield, which spans over 1,500 square miles. You can view it from the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center, walk to Nugget Falls, or take a guided kayaking or ice-trekking tour for a closer look. - Mount Roberts Tramway:
This scenic tram rises 1,800 feet above the cruise dock, offering breathtaking views of the Gastineau Channel and surrounding mountains. At the top, you’ll find hiking trails, a nature center, and a restaurant with floor-to-ceiling windows—perfect for spotting bald eagles soaring nearby. - Whale-Watching Excursions:
Juneau is one of the best places on Earth to see humpback and orca whales in the wild. Between May and September, the waters of Auke Bay teem with marine life. Most tours guarantee sightings—and often deliver playful seals, porpoises, and even breaching whales. - Downtown Juneau:
Spend time wandering through this walkable area filled with shops, cafés, and art galleries. Pop into the Alaska State Museum to explore exhibits on native cultures, Russian influences, and Alaska’s unique path to statehood. - Gold Panning Adventures:
Step into history at one of the old mining sites and try your luck at panning for gold—just like the pioneers of the 1800s.
Fun Facts:
- Juneau replaced Sitka as Alaska’s capital in 1906, and it remains the only U.S. capital bordered by a glacier.
- The Juneau Icefield feeds over 30 glaciers, many visible from air tours and scenic flights.
- The city’s population nearly doubles during cruise season—yet it never loses its small-town friendliness.
Local Tip: Don’t leave without sampling the local catch of the day—Alaskan salmon, halibut, or king crab. Restaurants like Tracy’s King Crab Shack or the Hangar on the Wharf serve them up fresh, often with an unbeatable view.
Juneau perfectly captures what makes Alaska so special: a blend of rugged wilderness, fascinating history, and warm hospitality—where every mountain peak and glacier tells a story.
Skagway, Alaska
When your ship glides into Skagway, it’s like stepping into the pages of a gold-rush novel. Wooden boardwalks, false-fronted buildings, and echoing saloon pianos transport you straight to the 1898 Klondike Gold Rush, when this once-quiet harbor exploded into a booming gateway for prospectors chasing fortune in the Yukon.
At its peak, Skagway had more than 20,000 residents, dozens of saloons, and a reputation as one of the wildest towns in the north. Lawlessness ran rampant until U.S. Marshal Soapy Smith—a notorious con man—met his end in a dramatic shootout that still lives on in local lore.
Today, Skagway is home to just around 1,000 year-round residents, but it preserves its frontier soul beautifully. The town’s downtown area is part of the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park, with more than 20 preserved buildings from the era.
Top Things to Do:
- Ride the White Pass & Yukon Route Railway:
Built during the Gold Rush, this narrow-gauge railroad climbs nearly 3,000 feet in just 20 miles, passing waterfalls, gorges, and breathtaking mountain views. It’s one of the world’s most scenic train journeys and a must-do for photographers and history buffs alike. - Explore Historic Downtown:
Wander past perfectly preserved false-front buildings housing boutiques, saloons, and museums. Stop by the Red Onion Saloon, once a bordello and now a lively restaurant and bar, or visit the Trail of ’98 Museum to see photos and relics from Skagway’s rowdy past. - Hike to Dewey Lake:
For a dose of nature, the Dewey Lake Trailhead starts just blocks from downtown. The trail climbs steadily through spruce forest to overlook the town, harbor, and glacier-carved valleys below. - Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park Visitor Center:
Don’t miss the ranger-led talks or films that bring the human stories of the Gold Rush to life.
Fun Facts:
- “Skagway” comes from a Tlingit word meaning “windy place.” You’ll understand why once you feel the breeze sweeping down from the mountains!
- The White Pass & Yukon Route Railway was designated an International Historic Civil Engineering Landmark, alongside the Eiffel Tower and the Panama Canal.
- Many of Skagway’s summer workers are college students who return year after year, drawn by the town’s charm and tight-knit community.
Local Tip: Skagway is one of Alaska’s most walkable ports—so wear comfy shoes and take time to explore side streets and local art shops. If you’re lucky, you might even catch one of the town’s lively historical reenactments on the main street.
Skagway is more than a port—it’s a living museum of courage, chaos, and hope from a time when adventure was the only guarantee.
Glacier Bay National Park (Scenic Cruising)
Few sights on Earth rival Glacier Bay National Park. It’s not just a stop on your itinerary—it’s a front-row seat to one of nature’s most dramatic performances. Imagine standing on deck, coffee in hand, as massive walls of ice crack, shift, and thunder into the water below. The sound echoes for miles. It’s equal parts humbling and unforgettable.
Located in southeastern Alaska, Glacier Bay is a protected UNESCO World Heritage Site and part of a vast wilderness spanning more than 3 million acres of mountains, glaciers, rainforests, and deep fjords. What makes this region especially fascinating is how alive it is—constantly changing and reshaping itself.
Just 250 years ago, this entire bay was filled with a single massive glacier. Since then, it’s retreated more than 65 miles, uncovering dramatic valleys and islands now home to seals, eagles, bears, and whales. Every visit is a snapshot in time—no two cruises ever see it the same way.
Because of its fragile ecosystem, only a handful of cruise ships are granted entry each day. Holland America Line holds more Glacier Bay permits than any other cruise line, which means a much higher chance your itinerary includes this incredible day.
During your time in Glacier Bay, National Park Rangers and First Nations cultural interpreters come aboard to narrate the journey. They share stories of the land’s geological evolution, its importance to the Indigenous Tlingit people, and the wildlife that calls it home. These onboard presentations add a deeply human layer to the natural wonder surrounding you.
**Keep your camera and binoculars ready—**it’s common to spot humpback whales breaching in the distance, sea lions lounging on ice floes, or bald eagles soaring overhead. And when a glacier calves (breaks apart), you’ll hear what locals call “white thunder”—a low rumble followed by a splash so powerful it can rock the ship ever so slightly.
Fun Facts:
- Glacier Bay is one of the fastest-changing landscapes on Earth—scientists have studied its retreat and regrowth for over a century.
- There are more than 1,000 glaciers in the park, with about a dozen considered “active tidewater” glaciers that reach the sea.
- The Tlingit people have lived in this region for thousands of years, calling it “Sít’ Eeti Geiyí” — “the bay in place of the glacier.”
Local Tip: Bring binoculars, a good camera with zoom, and a warm blanket. Even if it’s chilly on deck, this is one day you won’t want to miss a moment inside. Layer up, grab a hot cocoa, and watch the magic unfold.
Glacier Bay is where the power of nature meets profound stillness—an experience that reminds you just how vast and wondrous our planet truly is.
Ketchikan, Alaska
Known as the Salmon Capital of the World, Ketchikan is a vibrant blend of history, Indigenous heritage, and coastal charm. It’s often the first or last port on an Alaska cruise, but it leaves a lasting impression with its colorful waterfront buildings, rich culture, and wild beauty.
Founded in 1885, Ketchikan began as a fishing camp for the Tlingit people, whose descendants still live in the area today. As settlers arrived, it grew into a bustling salmon-canning town and logging hub. The result is a community that’s both steeped in history and deeply connected to the surrounding wilderness.
Fun Fact: Ketchikan receives nearly 13 feet of rain a year, earning it the nickname “The Rain Capital of Alaska.”Locals take pride in it—rain gear here is practically a fashion statement!
Top Things to Do:
- Totem Bight State Park:
A short drive from downtown, this park celebrates the artistry and storytelling of Alaska’s Native peoples. Walk through lush rainforest trails lined with hand-carved totem poles and a reconstructed Clan House, while learning how these towering works of art preserve history through symbolism and legend. - Creek Street:
Built on stilts above Ketchikan Creek, this historic boardwalk was once the town’s red-light district during the early 1900s. Today, its bright wooden buildings house galleries, boutiques, and cafes. If you visit between July and September, look down—you might see salmon swimming upstream beneath your feet! - Misty Fjords National Monument (by Floatplane):
One of the most awe-inspiring experiences in Southeast Alaska, a floatplane tour over Misty Fjords reveals sheer granite cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and mirror-like lakes. It’s like flying into a postcard—remote, pristine, and utterly unforgettable. - Fishing Excursions:
Whether you’re an angler or a first-timer, Ketchikan offers some of the best fishing in the world. Charter a boat for the chance to reel in wild salmon or halibut, often right in view of eagles perched above. Many excursions will even clean, flash-freeze, and ship your catch home. - Saxman Native Village:
Visit this nearby Tlingit community to see the world’s largest collection of standing totem poles and watch master carvers at work. The village also offers cultural dance performances that bring ancient stories to life.
Local Tip: Ketchikan’s weather changes fast—carry a waterproof jacket and embrace the drizzle. The rain is what makes the surrounding rainforest so lush and photogenic.
Fun Facts:
- Ketchikan is built on a steep hillside; many streets are actually staircases, giving it a uniquely charming feel.
- The Tongass National Forest, the largest temperate rainforest in the world, surrounds the town—keep an eye out for bald eagles and black bears.
- The city’s name comes from the Tlingit word “Ketchikan,” meaning “thundering wings of an eagle.”
From its colorful history to its artistic soul, Ketchikan is where Alaska’s cultural heartbeat and natural splendor come together. Whether you’re shopping, exploring, or simply watching the salmon leap, you’ll feel like you’ve found a slice of classic Alaska—alive with stories old and new.
Days at Sea — Inside Passage
The Inside Passage isn’t just the route between ports—it’s one of the most spectacular parts of your Alaska cruise. These days at sea (from Vancouver to Juneau, and again from Ketchikan back to Vancouver) offer a chance to slow down and simply take it all in.
This famous waterway stretches for more than 500 miles, weaving through a maze of islands, fjords, and coastal mountains. Because the route is sheltered from the open Pacific, the waters are calm and mirror-like—perfect for spotting reflections of glacier-capped peaks and emerald forests.
Scenery to Watch For:
As you sail north, you’ll pass countless tiny islands and remote fishing villages, along with cascading waterfalls that tumble straight into the sea. The Tongass National Forest, the world’s largest temperate rainforest, flanks much of the route, offering deep green contrast to the icy blues of distant glaciers.
Keep your eyes peeled—these waters are teeming with wildlife. Humpback whales, orcas, porpoises, seals, and sea lions are frequent visitors. Grab a pair of binoculars, head to the outer decks or your balcony, and scan the water’s surface for fins or misty spouts. On some mornings, you might even see bald eagles gliding low over the water, fishing for their breakfast.
September’s Bonus Magic:
Cruising this route in September adds one more unforgettable highlight: the possibility of seeing the Northern Lights. As daylight hours shorten and skies darken, the aurora becomes more visible in Alaska’s southern latitudes.
If the forecast looks promising, bundle up, grab a hot drink, and head to the upper decks after dark. When the aurora appears, it dances across the sky in waves of green, pink, and purple light—a sight so surreal, it feels almost spiritual.
Local Tip: The Inside Passage can get misty in the mornings. Don’t mistake fog for a downside—it adds an ethereal beauty, especially as the first rays of sun cut through and reveal mountains emerging from the haze.
These serene sailing days are your chance to rest, recharge, and reconnect—with nature, with your travel companions, and maybe even with yourself. It’s Alaska’s beauty in its purest, most peaceful form.
Explore Excursions and Shore Adventures
One of the best parts of cruising Alaska is what happens off the ship. Every port is filled with opportunities to experience the region up close—from glacier hikes and floatplane tours to gold-rush train rides and wildlife encounters.
To make planning easy, I’ve partnered with Viator, where you can browse and book excursions that match your interests, budget, and schedule. Whether you’re looking for an adrenaline-pumping adventure or a relaxed cultural experience, you’ll find curated tours for each port of call.
(Pro Tip: Excursions often sell out—especially in smaller ports like Skagway and Ketchikan—so I recommend booking early or at least a month before your trip to lock in your favorites.)
What to Pack for an Alaska Cruise
Alaska’s weather is as unpredictable as it is beautiful—sunshine one moment, misty drizzle the next. You might start your morning in a T-shirt watching whales from the deck and end the day bundled in fleece while sailing past a glacier. That’s why smart packing for Alaska is all about layers and lenses: layers to keep you comfortable and lenses to capture everything you’ll see.
Whether you’re exploring ports, photographing wildlife, or relaxing on deck, the key is to dress for flexibility and comfort, not just warmth. Here’s what you’ll want to bring—and why it matters:
Clothing Essentials
- Waterproof Jacket: A reliable rain shell is a must. Even when it’s not raining, mist and sea spray are part of the Alaskan experience. Choose something lightweight and breathable so you can layer underneath as needed.
- Warm Base Layers: These are the foundation of your Alaska wardrobe. Look for moisture-wicking fabrics that keep you warm without bulk. Merino wool or synthetic blends work best.
- Fleece or Insulating Layer: Great for deck time or glacier days when the air turns crisp. You’ll want to stay cozy while still being able to shed a layer if the sun breaks through.
- Comfortable Walking Shoes or Hiking Boots: You’ll be exploring everything from forest trails to wooden boardwalks, so supportive, water-resistant footwear is a must. (Many excursions involve a bit of walking or uneven terrain.)
- Gloves, Hat, and Scarf: Don’t underestimate wind chill, especially when the ship is moving. Having these handy can make the difference between “just right” and “too cold to enjoy the view.”
Adventure Accessories
- Binoculars: Alaska is all about what you see—and some of the best moments happen far from the ship. Binoculars help you spot eagles perched on treetops, bears along the shore, and whales breaching in the distance.
- Camera with a Zoom Lens: Even a simple point-and-shoot with optical zoom or a smartphone telephoto lens will go a long way. You’ll want it ready for glaciers calving, rainbows over fjords, and wildlife moments you can’t believe you captured.
- Reusable Water Bottle: Hydration is key in cool, dry air, and it helps reduce plastic waste on board. Fill it before excursions—you’ll thank yourself mid-hike.
Don’t Forget
- Lightweight Rain Gear: A rain poncho or packable rain pants are great for outdoor excursions. They take up little space and make rainy days much more enjoyable.
- Swimsuit: Yes, really! Most ships have heated pools and hot tubs, and there’s nothing like soaking outside while mountains drift by.
- Sunglasses and Sunscreen: Even on overcast days, sunlight reflecting off water and ice can be surprisingly intense.
Pro Tips from Experienced Cruisers
- Leave bulky parkas at home—multiple thin layers are warmer, lighter, and easier to pack.
- Bring small plastic or dry bags to protect electronics and keep wet items separate.
- Dress in comfortable “expedition chic.” Alaska cruises are relaxed; think functional and cozy, not formal (unless you’re attending an onboard gala night).
- Consider a pair of gloves with touchscreen capability so you can use your phone or camera without freezing your fingers.
Packing for Alaska isn’t about looking perfect—it’s about being prepared to enjoy every moment, whether you’re sailing through fog-draped fjords, hiking to a glacier, or watching the Northern Lights from the open deck. When you’re comfortable, warm, and ready for anything, you’ll spend less time worrying about the weather—and more time soaking in the magic.Pro Tip: Leave bulky parkas at home—multiple thin layers are warmer, lighter, and easier to pack.
When to Go: Choosing the Best Time to Cruise Alaska
Alaska’s cruise season runs from May through September, and every month has its own distinct rhythm, color palette, and perks. There’s no single “best” time to go—it all depends on what kind of experience you want.
Below is a month-by-month guide to help you find your perfect sailing season.
May – Early Season Serenity
Average temperatures: 40–55°F (4–13°C)
May marks the awakening of Alaska. The snow still glitters on mountaintops, the days are growing longer, and wildlife begins to reappear after winter’s quiet. It’s a time when the state feels raw, fresh, and wonderfully uncrowded.
Why Go in May:
- Fewer visitors and often lower cruise fares mean a more peaceful atmosphere both onboard and ashore.
- Early wildlife sightings: bears emerging from hibernation, moose calves, and migrating whales.
- Snow still visible on peaks adds drama to photos, while wildflowers begin to bloom along trails.
Insider Tip: Bring warm layers—mornings and glacier days can feel chilly—but you’ll enjoy wide-open decks and unhurried excursions.
June – Long Days and Lush Landscapes
Average temperatures: 45–60°F (7–16°C)
June is the sweet spot for travelers who love mild weather and maximum daylight. Alaska is fully awake—green, vibrant, and bursting with wildlife.
Why Go in June:
- Nearly 20 hours of daylight in some regions—perfect for late-evening glacier viewing or outdoor dining on deck.
- Excellent time for hiking, kayaking, and photography; trails are open and wildflowers are in bloom.
- Whales, sea lions, and eagles are active and easy to spot.
Insider Tip: June combines the best of both worlds: great weather and moderate crowds. Book excursions early, especially popular wildlife tours and the White Pass Railway.
July – Peak Season Energy
Average temperatures: 50–65°F (10–18°C)
July brings Alaska’s warmest weather and liveliest vibe. Ports buzz with festivals, markets, and cruise-day excitement. It’s summer at its finest in the 49th state.
Why Go in July:
- Warmest and sunniest month, with average highs reaching the upper 60s°F (and occasionally into the 70s).
- Prime salmon and halibut fishing season—a dream for anglers and food lovers alike.
- Longer days mean more time for adventure: glacier kayaking, zip-lining, and flightseeing.
Insider Tip: July is the most popular (and priciest) month to cruise, but also the most reliable for clear weather. Expect vibrant towns, busy ports, and endless daylight.
August – Wildlife and Waterfalls
Average temperatures: 50–60°F (10–15°C)
By August, Alaska begins to shift into softer light and richer colors. The air feels a bit cooler, the pace a bit slower—but wildlife activity hits its peak.
Why Go in August:
- Bears gather along salmon streams, whales feed actively, and eagles swoop low over the water.
- Lush landscapes from regular rain showers—perfect for photographers.
- Slightly fewer crowds than July and often late-season discounts.
Insider Tip: Pack a waterproof shell and quick-dry pants. The mist and rain add a moody, cinematic beauty to your photos, especially in rainforest areas like Ketchikan.
September – The Magic of Fall (and the Northern Lights)
Average temperatures: 45–55°F (7–13°C)
Late August and September bring a quieter, more reflective side of Alaska. The forests glow with fall color, the air turns crisp, and there’s a special stillness in the ports that feels like the calm after a grand adventure.
Why Go in September:
- Fewer crowds and lower fares—a more intimate, relaxed experience on board and ashore.
- Northern Lights season begins—clear nights sometimes reveal dazzling displays of green and pink across the sky.
- Wildlife is still abundant: bears stock up for winter, whales migrate south, and eagles soar overhead.
- Cooler temperatures make for perfect hiking and cozy evenings on deck with a blanket and cocoa.
Insider Tip: Bring warm, layered clothing and waterproof shoes. September is the most peaceful—and in many ways, the most photogenic—month to sail Alaska’s Inside Passage.
Finding Your Perfect Season
If you crave tranquility, value, and crisp air, May or September might be your perfect window.
If you want long, sunny days and bustling ports, choose June or July.
For those chasing peak wildlife encounters and dramatic misty scenery, August delivers in full.
Whenever you go, Alaska rewards you with something extraordinary—towering glaciers, whales at play, and the sense of standing on the edge of the wild.
Why Holland America Line Excels in Alaska
When it comes to Alaska, Holland America Line doesn’t just visit—it belongs there.
For nearly eight decades, Holland America has been charting the waters of the Great Land, long before Alaska even achieved statehood. Their deep roots, local partnerships, and unmatched experience make them not only a cruise line—but a storyteller of Alaska itself.
If you’re going to experience this extraordinary place, there’s truly no one better to take you there.
Here’s why:
Decades of Expertise & Local Connection
Holland America Line has been sailing Alaska’s Inside Passage for nearly 80 years, earning the title of the original Alaska cruise line. That legacy means something here—it’s reflected in the relationships they’ve built with local communities, rangers, and cultural ambassadors who call Alaska home.
Because of this long-standing partnership with the land and its people, their itineraries are more thoughtful, their experiences more immersive, and their routes more scenic. They know every hidden cove, every glacier viewpoint, and every story worth telling.
When you cruise with Holland America, you’re not just seeing Alaska—you’re experiencing it through the eyes of those who know it best.
Exclusive Glacier Bay Access
Glacier Bay National Park is the crown jewel of any Alaska cruise—and access is tightly limited. Only a few cruise lines are granted permits to enter each day, and Holland America holds the most Glacier Bay National Park permits of any cruise line.
That means your chances of sailing into this pristine, protected wonderland are far greater with HAL than with anyone else. Once inside, your ship doesn’t just pass through—it lingers, allowing you to watch the glaciers breathe, move, and thunder into the sea at a relaxed, unhurried pace.
Even better? Holland America ships dock closer to shore in Alaskan ports and do not tender on this voyage. You’ll step directly from ship to land, spending more time exploring and less time waiting in lines or small boats.
Authentic, Alaska-Inspired Cuisine
One of the most underrated ways to experience Alaska is through its food—and Holland America does it beautifully. Their culinary team designs menus around regional ingredients, sourcing fresh seafood directly from local fishermen and purveyors along the route.
Expect to savor:
- Wild-caught salmon, halibut, and crab brought aboard fresh from Alaskan waters.
- Locally inspired specialties like reindeer sausage, cedar-plank salmon, and berry tarts made with regional produce.
- Alaska Brewing Co. beers and regional wines, often served alongside storytelling or tasting events.
Each meal feels like a love letter to the land you’re sailing through—sustainable, seasonal, and full of flavor.
Explorations Central (EXC) Program: Learning That Comes Alive
Perhaps the most unique feature of Holland America’s Alaska cruises is their award-winning Explorations Central (EXC) program.
EXC isn’t just onboard enrichment—it’s immersive storytelling. Throughout your journey, you’ll hear from Park Rangers, First Nations speakers, historians, chefs, and naturalists who come aboard to share their knowledge and culture firsthand.
You might:
- Listen to a Glacier Bay Ranger narrate the landscape as you sail past tidewater glaciers.
- Learn traditional salmon-cooking methods from a local chef.
- Hear stories from Alaska Native cultural interpreters who explain the history behind the totem poles you’ll see in port.
- Join photography workshops or cooking demos designed around Alaskan themes.
For travelers who crave meaningful travel—the kind that connects you to place, people, and purpose—EXC turns your cruise into a moving classroom you’ll never want to leave.
In Short: The Alaska Experts
From their decades of experience to their exclusive access and deep respect for local culture, Holland America Line stands at the top of the list for Alaska cruising.
They don’t just showcase Alaska’s beauty—they help you understand it, taste it, and truly feel it. Every sailing is crafted to balance adventure and reflection, luxury and authenticity.
When you cruise Alaska with Holland America, you’re not just crossing destinations off a list—you’re becoming part of a story that’s been unfolding for nearly 80 years.
Ready to Plan Your Alaska Adventure?
Whether you’re chasing the Northern Lights, tracing gold-rush history, or standing in awe before a glacier, Alaska by sea is an experience you’ll never forget.
When you’re ready to start planning, I’ll help you find the perfect sailing to match your pace, style, and sense of adventure.
